#263 | Mary Teslow | Language on 3 Petals Too Elitist

Submission 263
Mary Teslow
UU Fellowship of Franklin North Carolina (Franklin, NC) 6636

What is your suggestion or idea?

If our denomination wants to cast a wider circle of inclusion, our current comments from our Fellowship suggest the language of three petals is too elitist. We suggest the following three changes:
pluralism > diversity
equity > equality
transformation > change
We recognize that our suggestions may not be the perfect word but are more accessible to a broader range of people who might join us.

What is the reason for your amendment idea?

As mentioned above, these three terms convery a sense of elitism that may be off-putting to individuals who might well find a spiritual home with us.

Have you discussed this idea with your congregation or other UUs?

Yes. Our Fellowship has had some beginning conversations and this suggestion has received support. We will continue with our discussions and vote at our annual meeting.

2 Likes

Yes, the new text likes the big words a bit too much